72nd Inter-Services Hockey Championship 2025-26 commences at Jalandhar

Jalandhar, March 10, 2026: The 72nd Inter-Services Hockey Championship 2025-26 commenced with a grand opening ceremony at the Vajra Astroturf Hockey Stadium, Army Hockey Node (AHN), Jalandhar, under the aegis of the Army Sports Control Board. Hosted by Vajra Corps, the prestigious championship showcases the finest hockey talent from the Services while reinforcing the spirit of Sportsmanship, Physical Excellence and Inter-Service Camaraderie.
The championship is being conducted from 09 to 13 March and features four teams Army Red, Army Green, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force competing in a Round Robin League format. The tournament will culminate with the final match and prize distribution ceremony on 13 March.
The tournament was formally inaugurated by Lieutenant General Ajay Chandpuria, AVSM, VSM, General Officer Commanding, Vajra Corps, in the presence of senior military officers, troops, distinguished Veterans, members of the hockey fraternity and officials from the Punjab Government. The championship was declared open with the ceremonial rolling of the ball, marking the beginning of an exciting contest among the Services.
The opening match between the Army Red and Army Green teams set an exciting tone for the tournament, with both sides displaying exceptional skill, discipline and competitive spirit.
The Inter-Services Hockey Championship, one of the premier sporting events of the Armed Forces, serves as an important platform for identifying and nurturing talented players who go on to represent the Services at national and international levels. The championship promotes sporting excellence, physical fitness and teamwork while strengthening the enduring bonds of camaraderie among the Services.
Army Hockey Node, Jalandhar, plays a pivotal role in this effort through structured training and competitive exposure, contributing significantly to the development of elite hockey talent within the Services.
The tournament is expected to attract hockey enthusiasts, veterans and sports lovers from across the region, celebrating the proud legacy of Services hockey and its enduring contribution to India's sporting landscape.